1979 Peugeot 304 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1882 kg more than 1979 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Peugeot 304 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Peugeot | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 304 | A |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.6 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 2832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 60 L |
